How did the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, describe what the Companions found – of whispers (waswas) – as pure faith, even though whispers afflict the weak in faith and the ignorant, and despite the strength of the Companions' faith?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an organic disease like any other, afflicting both believers and non-believers. The person afflicted dislikes these obsessions and thoughts, and this is a sign of pure faith. Pious and religious people may suffer from these obsessions more than others, because Satan wants to ensnare them in the trap of obsessions. However, whoever sincerely seeks refuge in Allah, Allah will ward off these obsessions from him. Sheikh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah explained that the believer is afflicted by Satan's obsessions and thoughts of disbelief, which constrict his chest, and that disliking these obsessions and repelling them from the heart is a sign of pure faith. He also pointed out that Satan intensifies his interference with a servant who desires to repent to his Lord and draw closer to Him. For this reason, he presents worshippers, seekers of knowledge, and devout individuals with more obsessions and doubts than he presents to others.